Research Group Leader: Advanced Casting Technologies

Kone Staffing Solutions; Pretoria; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading staffing solutions company in Pretoria is seeking a highly experienced leader to implement their research group's RDI strategy. The ideal candidate will have a doctoral degree in Science or Engineering, at least 8 years of relevant experience in manufacturing, and a proven track record in managing multidisciplinary teams. This role involves driving research activities, developing innovative technologies for clients, and fostering stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years post-PhD experience in manufacturing, preferably casting and metallurgy.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary science/engineering teams.
• Solid product development background.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the research group's RDI strategy.
• Develop technologies and package them for potential clients.
• Drive research group activities including R&D projects and technology transfer.

Skills

Leadership in research project management

Business development for technical projects

Excellent communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Doctoral degree in Science or Engineering

Job description

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the research group's Research Development and Innovation (RDI) strategy to support the overall impact area RDI strategy, focusing on technology trends, impact, growth, investment, commercialization, and technology transfer.
• Develop technologies and package them for potential clients.
• Conduct business development and networking activities to attract funding from various sources, building sustainable client relationships, including planning and costing.
• Drive the research group's activities, including investment, R&D projects, technology transfer, commercialization, business development, and human capital development.
• Manage strategic local and international stakeholder relationships to secure integrated research and industry programs.
• Leverage current technology trends to create impactful solutions that promote industry growth.
• Lead a team of researchers and engineers to deliver projects on time, within budget, and according to brief.
• Promote a culture of excellence in Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET) and provide RDI leadership across disciplines.
• Support employee development through strategic initiatives to advance research careers and align with the impact area strategy.

Additional Responsibilities

• Achieve personal, research group, and impact area KPIs, including profit and loss, quality, safety, employee development, and transformation.
• Contribute to the management of the Advanced Material and Manufacturing impact area, including strategic investment and RDI strategy development.

Qualifications and Experience

• Doctoral degree in Science or Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum of 8 years post-PhD experience in manufacturing, preferably casting and metallurgy.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary science/engineering teams.
• Proven leadership in research project management.
• Experience in business development for technical projects.
• Solid product development background.
• Track record in casting and foundries industry, including publications and technology outputs.
• Experience in business development and commercialization activities.
• Development of innovative technologies and product solutions for clients.
• Financial acumen.
• Excellent communication skills, including oral, presentation, research, and report writing.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Established national and international RDI networks.
• Understanding of the research-to-market innovation value chain.